“Let’s not contemplate defeat..”

With the focus on the Sinn Fein Ard Fheis, the BBC NI’s Politics Show’s Kevin Sharkey reports on the party’s difficulties in connecting with voters there – it’s worth listening out for SF Councillor Killian Forde’s comments about that “hostile” media. Below the fold a “philosophical” Gerry Adams, the “longest serving Irish political leader on the island”, dismisses questions about his position and praises the DUP for “doing their best” in government the Northern Ireland administration. He also points to Mary Lou McDonald’s new role, “elected by the Ard Fheis”, but neglects to mention that she was the only candidate for the position of party vice-president. And on the potential for a future coalition with other parties, including Fianna Fáil – “The Ard Fheis will make the decision..” [As they did on policing? – Ed] Indeed. Also included is Martina Purdy’s report on a new “number one priority” on view at the Sinn Féin Ard Fheis. Here’s Kevin Sharkey’s report.

Sinn Féin’s Gerry Adams on his, and his party’s, future.

And, despite what Gerry Adams told Jim Fitzpatrick in the interview above, Martina Purdy spots a new “number one priority” in the party speeches.

Pete Baker